More than 60,000 new cases of type 2 diabetes are documented each year, making it one of the fastest-growing diseases. Though this may concern many family caregivers, knowing the risk factors for this condition may prevent your senior loved one from developing it.
Inactivity
As people get older, they tend to become less active. This can lead to obesity and a slower metabolism, which can increase the risk of developing diabetes. Encouraging your loved one to remain as physically active as possible can help him or her maintain a healthy weight, use more glucose as energy, and make the body more sensitive to the insulin produced.
Aging adults may require assistance with exercise as well as other daily activities. Home care service experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
Abdominal Fat
Seniors who carry extra weight around the belly instead of the hips and thighs are more likely to develop diabetes. This is because excess abdominal fat is often linked to impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance. You can help your loved one reduce the risk of developing diabetes by encouraging him or her to engage in regular physical activity and eat a healthy diet high in lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables.
A professional caregiver can help your loved one plan and prepare nutritious meals. If your elderly loved one needs Columbus live-in care, turn to Assisting Hands Home Care. Our caregivers encourage seniors to focus on eating nutritious foods, exercising on a regular basis, maintaining strong social ties, and other lifestyle factors known to increase longevity.
Family History
Seniors whose parents had diabetes or whose siblings currently have diabetes are more likely to develop the disease themselves. Even though family history cannot be changed, you can still reduce your loved one’s risk by ensuring he or she receives regular medical checkups, including blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar checks.
Abnormal Cholesterol
Studies show a significant link between abnormal cholesterol levels and diabetes. Glucose tends to attach to LDL, also known as “bad” cholesterol. This allows the LDL to remain in the body longer, which can lead to higher glucose levels and the formation of plaque in the arteries. This plaque is what causes heart disease and strokes.
People with diabetes also tend to have low HDL, or “good” cholesterol, and high triglycerides, which raises the cardiovascular risk even further. You can help your loved one by ensuring he or she gets regular cholesterol screenings, eats a diet low in saturated fat and high in fruits and vegetables, and gets exercise at least three times a week.
Seniors at risk of developing type 2 diabetes can benefit from the helping hands of professional caregivers. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust Columbus senior home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives. If you need professional care for your loved one, Assisting Hands Home Care is just a phone call away. Reach out to one of our Care Specialists today.
